NEYFA Launches Fourth Annual Deckhand to Captain Training Program

Bella Dziak
Apr 23
2 min read

The New England Young Fishermen’s Alliance (NEYFA) is proud to launch its fourth annual Deckhand to Captain Training Program, beginning April 16, 2025.

Each spring, NEYFA brings together a select cohort of aspiring small-boat fishermen and women from New Hampshire, southern Maine, and northern Massachusetts. This year, six young candidates have been accepted into the free program after a thorough application review by our Board earlier this month. These individuals displayed the commitment and grit needed to start their journey towards becoming an owner-operator in New England’s small-boat commercial fishing fleet.

Founded in 2022 by Executive Director Andrea Tomlinson, NEYFA is a Portsmouth, NH-based nonprofit with a mission to safeguard the future of the region’s fishing heritage. Through programming like Deckhand to Captain (DTC), NEYFA supports the next generation of fishermen with tools for success, on the water and on land.

Developed by fishermen, for fishermen, the DTC Program delivers critical skills training, mentorship, and financial support. Each participant is paired with a veteran Captain Mentor who guides them through the process of developing a business plan, securing insurance, and navigating the complexities of purchasing a vessel, permits, and licenses.

“This being our fourth annual Deckhand to Captain Training already doesn’t seem real—the past three years have flown by!” said Andrea Tomlinson. “We’ve graduated 16 trainees so far; at least half are now owner-operators of their vessels, while the others are actively developing their business plans. It feels great to be directly addressing the ‘graying of the fleet’ and helping young people step into the captain’s wheelhouse.”

In addition to classroom learning, the program includes a USCG-certified Safety/Survival and Drill Conductor course and requires a 15-hour commitment to collaborative industry research or advocacy.

Upon completing course requirements and submitting an approved business plan, each trainee receives a $5,000 stipend to help launch their fishing business. Their mentors also receive a $2,000 stipend in recognition of their invaluable guidance.

“Working with our trainees is always inspiring,” said Program Coordinator Bella Dziak. “They each bring a unique perspective to class and share the goal of owning a boat and fishing business. This program equips them with essential skills to achieve their goal while building a supportive community within NEYFA that is dedicated to a sustainable and local seafood system.”

For 2024 graduate Stoyan Papazov, the program was transformative: “The most impactful part was the classes focused on public speaking and business plan development. I am buying my first lobster boat this year and feel positive and more confident about taking the next step.”

As NEYFA kicks off the 2025 season, the success of past graduates continues to inspire. The program's impact is clear: more young fishermen charting a path toward business ownership, contributing to a resilient and locally rooted seafood system.

Want to keep up with our 2025 Trainees?